Islamabad Approves Third Lane on Srinagar Highway to Ease Traffic

In a significant infrastructure development, Islamabad authorities have approved the addition of a third lane to the existing two-lane Srinagar Highway between Jinnah Square (Serena Interchange) and Murree Road. The decision comes as part of broader efforts to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the capital, especially with the upcoming Murree Road underpass nearing completion.

Murree Road Underpass Nears Inauguration

According to Capital Development Authority (CDA) officials, 80% of the construction work on the Murree Road underpass is complete, and the formal inauguration is scheduled for May 22, 2025. This vital infrastructure project will provide direct access to Srinagar Highway for vehicles coming from the Murree side, eliminating the previously necessary detour via Dhokri Chowk.

The underpass is a component of the Rs. 4.2 billion Jinnah Square development, with Rs. 250 million saved from the main project and an additional Rs. 600 million allocated to ensure its completion. A 15% extension in the project scope was approved by the CDA board, allowing the same contractor to carry out the additional work without initiating a new tender process—thereby saving time and streamlining execution.

Wider Road Network and Structural Upgrades

Further expanding the city’s road network, CDA recently floated new tenders worth Rs. 1 billion for widening roads and carrying out structural upgrades in and around Jinnah Square. Among the planned upgrades is a new slip road connecting Globe Chowk directly to Srinagar Highway.

CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa confirmed that three out of four planned slip roads are already operational, and the fourth is progressing steadily. During a recent inspection, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need to complete all related work within May and directed the CDA to include landscaping around the construction site to enhance the area’s aesthetics.

Why This Matters?

The expansion of Srinagar Highway and the addition of new infrastructure like the Murree Road underpass are expected to dramatically reduce traffic bottlenecks and enhance east-west mobility in Islamabad. For daily commuters, the changes promise shorter travel times, reduced fuel consumption, and better access between key city zones.

These upgrades also reflect Islamabad’s long-term urban planning goals, where strategic public investments are being made to improve the overall quality of urban life, connectivity, and traffic management.

Afsheen Gohar

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